How do I tell Sultanabad and Mahal rugs apart?

Sultanabad and Mahal rugs originate from the same West Persian producing area and share similar materials, making strict separation difficult. The terms often overlap in the trade. In general, pieces designated as Sultanabad may display slightly larger patterns or commercial export formats, while Mahal can describe related village and workshop production from the identical district.

Where were these rugs made?

These rugs were woven in West Persia, centred around the town of Sultanabad, which is known today as Arak. This region served as a major hub for carpet production. Local workshops and surrounding villages employed traditional hand-knotting techniques, utilising local wool and natural dyes to create durable carpets for international distribution.

How do I care for an antique wool rug?

Caring for an antique wool rug involves gentle vacuuming without a beater bar to protect the delicate pile and cotton foundation. Regular rotation ensures even wear across high-traffic areas. Professional cleaning tailored for antique textiles should be utilised periodically to remove embedded dust while preserving the integrity of the natural dyes and wool fibres.